Paul exhorted us to run the race, that is, to live the Christian life in such a way that we may not be disqualified but finish the race and obtain the imperishable crown of eternal life
(1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Paul then gave the exodus generation of Israel (10:1-5) as an example not to follow (10:1-13). They failed to finish their race and enter the Promised Land because of their sin and unbelief. He warned us not to follow their example of lust, idolatry, and sexual immorality. We must not tempt Christ nor complain as some of them did. Their negative example should cause us not to become proud and to think that we stand but rather to take heed lest we fall as they did. Paul ended the passage by encouraging us. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (vs. 13).